Italian Court of Cassation clarifies driver data disclosure rules

The Italian Court of Cassation has clarified the legal obligations regarding the communication of driver data following traffic violations. According to ruling number 13604, issued on May 11, 2026, the obligation for a vehicle owner to provide the identity of the actual driver does not trigger immediately upon receiving a fine.

Instead, the obligation only arises after any legal appeals against the initial traffic violation have been finalized. This ruling aims to protect the right of defense, ensuring that personal data communication is not an automatic requirement before the validity of the fine itself is established.

Under Article 126-bis of the Highway Code, if a driver cannot be identified at the time of the infraction, the vehicle owner—or those jointly liable, such as lessees or users under financial leasing—must provide the driver’s license and personal details within 60 days of the notification. Failure to comply can result in administrative sanctions ranging from 291 to 1,166 euros.